The Catalina Foothills girls team went 26-0 en route to winning the 4A-I state title last season. The Falcons' undefeated streak is at 72.

A.E. Araiza / arizona daily star 2007

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Three state champs motivated to repeat

Other articles by John Holden:

Timely hitting, pitching lift Blue Devils to win Foothills captures 2nd title in 3 years Cienega, 15th seed, earns berth in title game Caballeros win 4A-I Kino soccer title Pena's Trojans win Gila Region Pressing defense leads Badgers past Rincon/University Sahuarita starts quickly, tops Marana in Palo Verde tourney Eagles top Jaguars to reach Cholla Charger title game Bulldogs cruise to win over Mustangs Ball bounces Sunnyside's way for win over Desert Vista

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After netting five of the state's eight big-school state championships and sending nine teams to the state finals, it will be difficult for Southern Arizona schools to replicate the success they had on the soccer field.

But the collection of talent on local rosters is still as high as it has been in years.

Here is a preseason look at where the area's defending state champions are entering the new season, which begins Monday.

Rincon/University

● 2006-07 record: 19-8 (4A-I)

● How they won: The Rangers came back from a 2-0 deficit in the state title game with forward Luke Teece scoring twice to beat Canyon del Oro 3-2.

● Why they could win again: Rincon returns its top players in Teece, midfielder Colin Anderson and defender Nick Dominguez. It is one of the best trio's in the state, regardless of classification.

● Biggest challenge: Rincon's new region, the 5A Southern II, is home to 2007 5A-II state finalists Mountain View and Sunnyside. Add a quality Ironwood Ridge team, and it is arguably the best region in the state.

Rio Rico

● 2006-07 record: 13-6 (4A-II)

● How they won: The Hawks powered through the state tournament last year, outscoring their opponents 12-1 in four games.

● Why they could win again: After two straight years of establishing themselves as one of the premier teams in the state, the Hawks have proven they know how to win under coach Dago Lopez. Their big-name players may be gone, but there is still enough talent around.

● Biggest challenge: The graduation of all-star players Rafael Tovar and Angel Torres leaves two big holes in the Hawks' lineup, and their 4A Gila Region schedule is no picnic, either.

Mountain View

● 2006-07 record: 16-9 (5A-II)

● How they won: The Mountain Lions capped a gritty tournament run with a 3-0 win over Sunnyside in the championship match.

● Why they could win again: Mountain View remains a formidable opponent thanks to the abilities of brothers Diego and Mario Carrillo, and midfielder Ramces Velazquez. They have been one of the most consistent teams in the state this decade.

● Biggest challenge: The Lions lost five senior starters and will have to find their feet quickly in the supremely difficult 5A-II. A new face will need to emerge as the team's go-to scorer.

Catalina Foothills

● 2006-07 record: 26-0 (4A-I)

● How they won: With a quarter of their team injured or suspended, the Falcons defeated Cienega 1-0 in the state final to stretch their undefeated streak to 72-games.

● Why they could win again: The Falcons simply don't lose. Their dynasty encompasses three straight state championships, thanks in large part to senior midfielder LeeAnn Felder, who has won 97 percent of her games in her prep career.

● Biggest challenge: Six players were suspended before the finals last year for a rules violation. With increased competition due to realignment, there is less room for error this season.

Flowing Wells

● 2006-07 record: 20-4 (5A-II)

● How they won: The Caballeros validated their top-seed status with impeccable defense in the state playoffs. They did not allow a goal in four games to claim their first-ever state title.

● Why they could win again: Forward and reigning player of the year Skye Schultz leads a core group of returning all-stars. Keeper Liz Slaymaker is as good as they come.

● Biggest challenge: Moving down to 4A-I did the Caballeros no favors this year, as they will have to dethrone Foothills if they are to win their second straight state title.